LEGACY OF WOMEN IN SPORTS WALL: THE STORY BEHIND GU’S NEWLY INSTALLED DISPLAY
Published: November 07, 2024
The dictionary entry for “no-nonsense” should say, “See Tena Krause, GU Class of ’80.” Coach Krause, who retired in 2020, wasted no time marching one collegiate team after another to post-season tournaments, “most wins in school history,” team character awards, highest team GPA honors, and more.
But when she turned from a crowd gathered at GU’s recent Homecoming to talk to a wall, no one thought it out of character or silly.
“It’s been a long time coming,” she said to the images on the newly installed Legacy of Women in Sport display she helped create.
The sentiment spoke volumes about six great Panther coaches—June Strahl, Marilyn Starr, Sharon Alger ’61, Phyllis Holmes ’61, Lynn Adams ’69, and Pam Craig ’77.
The display brought tears to the eyes of some and stirred memories for many. Located near the entrance of HJ Long Gymnasium, it packs an inspirational and historical punch even for first-time visitors and prospective students. At a glance, the images say, “GU values women in sport and leadership.”
Adams, who returned to campus for its dedication, pronounced it “the best thing that has happened to women’s sports in Greenville.”
A TRIBUTE LIKE NO OTHER
The homage to Panther women’s sports originated with Tena’s one-time college roommate, GU Trustee Valerie Gin ’82. The two have 55+ years of combined coaching experience at the collegiate level. Both treasure their playing days under the inspiring leadership of Panther coaches Holmes and Adams.
“We always thought we could be coaches and professors at the college level because we saw it modeled for us,” said Val.
The display does more than herald a single individual. It celebrates the development of women’s athletics nurtured by strong leaders and relationships forged among teammates in the crucible of competition.
The University blazed a trail in women’s sports, beginning with intramural opportunities in 1911. Since then, Panther coaches have influenced women’s athletics in ever-widening circles, including the National Association of International Athletes (NAIA) and international sports.
STILL SOLICITING PANTHER STORIES, DO YOU HAVE ONE?
Tena and Val are grateful for the help they received unearthing stories about GU’s pioneering leaders and influencers in women’s sports. They could not have accomplished this undertaking without help from current coaches, former athletes, GU’s archivist Sharon Grimes, and student Lucas Nowlin.
Stories emerged not just of athletes and coaches but also of women who went on to serve as athletic directors, sports educators, sports managers, and more. “Legacy” truly captures the scope of the project.
“These stories aren’t always told,” said Val, “but they’re important.”
Her leadership on various boards, her involvement with sports organizations, and her role as a consultant give Val a unique vantage point. She now sees GU’s legacy undertaking as a valuable model for other universities.
In tandem with this new display, GU continues to collect and post alumni athletes’ stories. If you are a woman who benefitted from Panther Sports, go here to add your story and photos.
For information about visiting campus and viewing the Legacy of Women in Sport wall, contact athletics@greenville.edu.
